The CPI(M) today hit out at Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar over his remark on nuclear weapon use policy, saying it has serious implications for India's security, its standing in international ties and "undermines" the country's bid for a berth in UNSC and NSG.

Slamming the Minister, the party termed as “completely untenable” Parrikar’s contention that the remark was his personal opinion and said if he wishes to air personal views, he may do so after resigning from the Union Cabinet. (IE)

The CPI(M) today hit out at Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar over his remark on nuclear weapon use policy, saying it has serious implications for India’s security, its standing in international ties and “undermines” the country’s bid for a berth in UNSC and NSG.

Slamming the Minister, the party termed as “completely untenable” Parrikar’s contention that the remark was his personal opinion and said if he wishes to air personal views, he may do so after resigning from the Union Cabinet.

Parrikar had yesterday wondered why India cannot say “we are a responsible nuclear power and I will not use it irresponsibly” instead of affirming a “no first use policy”, remarks he said were personal in nature.

“The Defence Minister’s statement clearly indicates this government is negating India’s established stand on use of nuclear weapons in war. It jeopardises India’s security concerns by undermining the declared good neighbourly relations approach,” CPI(M) Politburo said in a statement.

“Further it undermines India’s efforts for membership of international bodies like the UN Security Council and Nuclear Suppliers Group,” it added.

The party also demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify his government’s commitment to India’s long standing position of universal nuclear disarmament and the non-use of nuclear weapons in war.